Abstract
Objective:
To characterize the profile of elderly hospitalized patients in foot wards of a university hospital; to identify the foot care demands of these patients; and to examine the possibilities of actions of nurses with them.
Methods:
A quantitative, exploratory-descriptive approach was followed. A total of 40 hospitalized elderly people participated in this study. An instrument including questions about physical examination of feet and a sensitivity test using Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament (10g), submitted to simple statistical analysis, was used.
Results:
A total of 32 (80%) elderly people had dry skin; 30 (75%), decreased sensitivity; 27 (67.5%), calluses; 22 (55%, cramps;) and 20 (50%), hallux valgus.
Conclusion:
Health professionals need to recognize the demands of the elderly population, including foot care, as foot changes can cause pain and discomfort and they can interfere with the daily lives of the elderly, creating risks that aggravate their illness and contribute to their disability.
Keywords:
Foot; Aged; Hospitalization; Nursing Care; Geriatric Nursing
